As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the kitchen, I found myself reminiscing about a fantastic summer spent on the shores of the Mediterranean. The air was filled with the scent of fresh herbs, sun-ripened tomatoes, and the salty breeze from the sea. Inspired by those vibrant flavors, I decided to create a salad that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is not only colorful and refreshing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. This helps to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and is fluffy. Remove it from the heat and let it cool.
While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. The vibrant colors will instantly brighten your salad and bring the Mediterranean essence to your plate.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. The olives add a delightful briny flavor, while the feta brings a creamy tang that perfectly complements the crisp veggies.
Next, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the feta too much; we want those beautiful crumbles to remain intact.
Finally, sprinkle the fresh parsley and basil on top of the salad for an added burst of flavor and aroma. Serve your Mediterranean Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a potluck, or as a side dish for grilled meats.
As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sun-kissed summer. The flavors danced on my palate, and I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that this salad would be a staple in my kitchen for years to come. Enjoy!